Legazpi: At least 5,000 Bicolanos from various provinces are expected to participate in the Family Congress 2025, which aims to strengthen family life as a vital foundation of both the church and society. In a press conference Tuesday afternoon, Fr. Dave Thomas Ramoso, chairperson of the Legazpi Diocese Commission on Family and Life, said the event is part of the 75th Diamond Jubilee celebration of the Diocese of Legazpi.

According to Philippines News Agency, the event will take place on Aug. 21 at the Ibalong Centrum for Recreation and will include discussions on topics such as Human Sexuality in the Divine Plan versus its Portrayal in the Media, Authentic Humane Sex Education, and Family Mental Health in the Digital Age. Ramoso highlighted the importance of addressing how children and older generations connect in today's digital age, noting the crucial role schools play in overseeing students.

Ramoso added that after hearing from the speakers, they would design programs to address the key insights gained during the event. The regional gathering, themed "Family: Blessed, Nourished, and Sent Forth with Mary," also invites school administrators, educators, guidance counselors, student leaders, and key stakeholders from both private and public sectors.

"It is vital for educators, professionals, and families to come together to understand the pressing concerns facing our households today and explore how we can respond with truth, compassion, and faith," he said. In a separate interview, Dr. Imelda Areola, consultant for the Legazpi Diocese Commission on Family and Life, explained that the selected topics are a proactive response aimed at providing information on comprehensive sexuality education.

Dr. Areola emphasized the importance of informing parents, as they are responsible for guiding their children on sensitive topics. She noted that this was one of the reasons for choosing the specific topics for the congress.